Government launches Brexit repeal bill amid fierce opposition

Guarantees that workers' rights in Britain do not fall behind those in the EU.

Britain confirmed it would leave European Atomic Energy Community but said it wanted to continue working closely with Euratom to help ensure a smooth exit.

Corbyn rejected this. "I think our economy will do very well under a Labour-led government because it will be an investment-led economy that works for all", he toldBBCNews.

Mr Jones said: "I have been clear since the day of the European Union referendum result - the UK is leaving the European Union and we will work with the UK Government to deliver a sensible Brexit and support a bill which provides clarity and certainty for businesses".

The new repeal bill also removes the United Kingdom from the EU's Charter of Fundamental Rights, a move that will be bitterly fought by Labour and other parties which see that as an attack on citizens' freedoms.

The so called Henry VIII powers could allow ministers to even establish whole new government agencies and regulatory bodies without reference to MPs.

Labour also set out five key points on which they oppose the bill, including concerns over enforcing workplace rights and environmental standards.

The bill is a key part of the government's plan to exit the European Union in 2019.

May must come to an agreement with her EU counterparts on the payment, as it is one of three areas, alongside citizens' rights and the border with Ireland, that European leaders are demanding "significant progress" on before discussions can move onto Britain's future relationship with the bloc.

UK Scottish Secretary David Mundell countered that the legislation would result in a powers "bonanza" for Holyrood and said he was confident that legislative consent would be forthcoming.

Starmer said he was putting May "on notice" that she must give ground on the bill.

Labour said Corbyn's meeting with Barnier marked its growing importance in the Brexit process - although Barnier insisted he would only negotiate with the government. That is what the British people voted for and it is exactly what we will do - ensure that the decisions that affect our lives are taken here in the UK.

He added: "I haven't seen any evidence that the prime minister has reflected on the outcome of the general election and indicated a willingness to change her approach to Brexit".

Mr Blair said leaving the single market was a "damaging position" shared by Labour and he urged the party's leadership to champion a "radically distinct" position on Europe.